The article also explores the potential impact of a proposed name change for NAFLD. Some experts argue that the term NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) is too broad and fails to adequately capture the more severe subset, NASH. As a result, they suggest renaming NAFLD to metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) to better reflect the underlying metabolic dysfunction associated with the condition. This proposed change could potentially shift the status quo and improve the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of NASH.
While some researchers and physicians support the proposed name change, others express concerns about the potential confusion and the need for more evidence to support the reclassification. The debate around the renaming of NAFLD to MAFLD continues, with ongoing discussions among international liver disease societies and medical experts.